"No One Becomes Great By Fitting In" Motivational Canvas Art by Ikonick

Stand out or be forgotten. 

In the animal kingdom, camouflage is used to go unnoticed. By developing the ability to blend in, animals can remain hidden from predators and survive longer in the wild. Leaf-dwelling insects take on the appearance of leaves; big cat predators like the tiger and leopard have patterns to disguise the outline of their larger bodies; in the open ocean some animals have the ability to shimmer or become transparent in order to blend in where there is no background. It is the greatest invention of self-preservation in the animal kingdom.

We humans took notice of the effective practice. As weaponry advanced beyond the musket, armies began using the tactic in military settings to help preserve soldiers and vehicles alike. They mimicked animals' abilities to disguise the shapes, silhouettes, and even the shadows of large equipment.

That's all well and good if you are trying to avoid attention. But these days, we have different priorities. We tend to crave it (whether we like to admit it or not) and dislike the idea of conforming to our environment. Animals and armies might thrive in hiding, but for the rest of us success comes when we distinguish ourselves from the pack.

People take notice of uniqueness. Just think of Steve Jobs, Freddie Mercury, and Dennis Rodman and the attention their personas garnered. There is no hiding authenticity. When someone is distinctly individual, it can't be ignored.

The great ones never fit in. People don't reach success by conforming—accomplishments are only seen when you stand out from the crowd.

Sure, there is a risk that comes with putting yourself out there. For an animal it might mean becoming lunch. For you it could be judgement from doubters, harsh critiques, or a painful failure. Have the courage to stand out. Find what makes you you, and go all in.

“No One Becomes Great By Fitting In.” Remember that. This original canvas artwork from IKONICK is a message to take to heart every day you wake up and see it on your wall. There is safety in blending in, but no glory. Disrupt the status quo, take the risk, and become great.